New windows

Apollo22

The windows in my home are very old.  They have condensation in them but on the plus side are thin as they are made of aluminium. Also in cold weather they have a lot of condensation on the inside (rather than between the panes).

I could change them, but its expensive and I may not be living in this home for more than another 3-5 years.

Is it worth changing, would it add value or am I better off just living with them?

thanks

FreeBear

Had aluminium framed DG windows (14mm thick sealed units) here. Most of the units had blown, and the outer hardwood frames were rotting. On top of that, they had been badly fitted, and there were cold draughts coming in around most of them. Now replaced with new uPVC windows. Draughts gone, no more condensation, and quality of life has improved dramatically (as well as needing less energy to heat the place). So for me, well worth doing.

If you were to leave your windows for the next owner to replace, expect to have to reduce the price to cover the cost of new ones - That replacement cost is only going to increase each year. So whilst it might be £5K now, in 5 years, it could be £7.5K.

Apollo22

Thank you for that Free Bear.  I think its best I get some quotes and then decide what to do.  I suppose in my head, I was going to sell my house at a certain price and the windows be damned, but I can see how others may offer a lower price.

MysteryMe

Unless it's sold as a renovation project it's best to try and update where you can to get the best price in any eventual sale. Also  just as importantly you get the benefit of living in a house with improved insulation for several years.

silverwhistle

MysteryMe said:

Also  just as importantly you get the benefit of living in a house with improved insulation for several years.

Yes, I've always looked at my house as my home and not as an investment vehicle, but any improvements I do for my own sake will improve the eventual sale price.